Kano-Niger Republic rail project: Communities tackle FG over compensations for 3,252 owners

 Kano-Maradi Railway Project Resumes Amidst Compensation Concerns

Construction has resumed on the $1.96 billion Kano-Maradi railway project despite recent diplomatic tensions between Nigeria and Niger Republic. The project, partially funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB), had slowed down but is now progressing, covering 283.75 kilometers and passing through 122 communities across 25 Local Government Areas in Nigeria and 11 communities in Niger.

Approved by the Federal Executive Council in September 2020, the railway is expected to boost trade and connectivity between the two nations. However, concerns persist over compensation for displaced persons. Reports indicate that 3,252 individuals, including farmers and homeowners, have yet to receive their promised payments three years after the project began.

A settlement audit by Windforce Safeguards Limited highlighted that while N20.325 billion was allocated for asset valuation, only N12.307 billion has been disbursed to 16,032 of the 19,284 affected persons. Additionally, 5,531 recipients expressed dissatisfaction with their compensation, citing underpayment and lack of transparency. Farmers from various communities in Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa states have reported delays or discrepancies in their payments, with some alleging deductions for bank charges.

In contrast, some residents confirmed receiving adequate compensation and expressed optimism about the railway’s economic benefits. Community leaders in Jigawa and Kano lauded the project’s resumption, highlighting its potential to enhance trade, create jobs, and improve transportation infrastructure.

Despite unresolved compensation issues, construction activities are ongoing. Observations from project sites in Kano and Jigawa reveal steady progress, with workers advancing towards new sections. Residents hope for timely completion, emphasizing the railway’s potential to transform local economies.

The Nigerian Ministry of Transportation and the Nigerian Railway Corporation have yet to comment on the compensation disputes. However, affected individuals continue to call for fairness in payments, urging authorities to fulfill their commitments before the project’s scheduled completion in 2026.